A breast reduction is a surgical procedure which aims to correct the problems associated with large breasts. It involves a general anesthetic and generally you will be required to stay 1-2 nights in hospital or this can be done as a day case depending on your circumstances. The nipple and areolar are moved to the correct position, the excess skin, fat and breast tissue are removed and the breast is moulded into a more pleasing shape. It usually involves a scar around the areolar, vertically down to the fold under the breast and a scar in the fold itself. It aims to produce a breast with an attractive shape, which is of a size proportionate to the patients’ body shape. This can improve self-esteem, the ability to exercise and relieve many of the health problems associated with excessively large breasts. It is an operation, which has a very high patient satisfaction rate.

You may be a good candidate for this procedure if you have one of more of the following conditions:

• 1. Breasts that are too large in proportion to your body frame
• 2. Heavy, pendulous breasts with nipples that point downwards
• 3. One breast that is much larger than the other
• 4. Back, neck or shoulder pain caused by the weight of your breasts
• 5. Skin irritation beneath your breasts
• 6. Indentations in your shoulders from tight bra straps
• 7. Restrictions of physical activity due to the size and weight or your breasts
• 8. Self-consciousness about the size of your breasts